Suspect packages ‘were chalk dust’

A suspicious powdery substance sent to six consulates in Istanbul, which led to more than 30 members of staff being taken to hospital, was a material similar to chalk dust, Turkish officials have said.

The consulates of Canada, Belgium, Germany, France and the United States were sent envelopes containing the powder last Friday, leading to the evacuation of some of the missions and 25 staff being admitted to hospital.

The Hungarian Consulate received a similar package yesterday and six staff members needed hospital treatment.

Mr Gumus said the 25 were discharged yesterday after authorities determined that the material was non-toxic. Six Hungarian consulate workers were due to be released today.

Turkish authorities are still investigating, and no arrests have been made.